A pub landlady is facing a £3,000 weekly heating bill, an MP has said in a debate on supporting the hospitality industry.

Liberal Democrat MP Liz Jarvis led the discussion focusing on the impact of the Government’s decisions on local businesses.

One case highlighted was that of Lorraine Reeves, the landlady of The Master Builder Pub in West End, who faces weekly heating costs of around £3,000.

This has forced her to work over 90 hours a week just to keep her business afloat. She is considering her future, the MP said.

Ms Jarvis said: "Hospitality is not only a significant economic driver but also the beating heart of our high streets and communities.

"From the pubs that act as social hubs to the restaurants and cafes that bring people together, this sector is central to our economy and way of life.

"Yet, despite the remarkable community contribution our hospitality industry generates, the sector is under immense pressure. Nationally, hospitality employs 3.5 million people, generates £140 billion in economic activity, and pays £54 billion in taxation.

"The government’s budget, however, introduced £3.4 billion of cost increases, including rises in employer National Insurance Contributions.

"Every closed hospitality venue is not just a lost business but a lost opportunity for social connection and local employment.

"This government must step up and deliver policies that support hospitality and ensure a brighter future for our high streets and the communities they serve."

Following the introduction of £3.4 billion in cost increases in the November Budget, the hospitality sector has been left in a difficult situation.

These increases included rises in employer National Insurance contributions and the National Minimum Wage.

Ms Jarvis has called for a review of the business rates system and for the Government to collaborate with hospitality advocacy groups to better support the sector.